The Abia State Government has reduced the penalty for violating newly introduced restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations from N50,000 to N20,000 and shifted the commencement of enforcement from June 23 to June 29.
According to The Punch, the government announced the changes on Wednesday, less than 24 hours after unveiling measures regulating commercial motorcycle, popularly known as okada, operations in the Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia metropolitan areas.
In a statement titled “Abia State Govt Public Advisory on the Regulation of Commercial Motorcycle (Okada) Operations,” Commissioner for Information Okey Kanu said the restrictions were introduced as part of efforts to improve public safety and security across the state.
Kanu explained that the government recognised the concerns of thousands of residents who depend on commercial motorcycles for their livelihood but stressed that the protection of lives and property remained a priority.
“The safety and security of our citizens must always remain paramount. No economic consideration can outweigh the value of human life,” he said.
He emphasised that the policy was not targeted at any ethnic group or community, noting that it applies uniformly to all operators affected by the regulation.
The commissioner announced that enforcement of penalties would now begin on June 29, while all motorcycles previously impounded could be reclaimed free of charge after 48 hours, subject to verification and documentation requirements.
He added that any penalty already collected before the new enforcement date would be refunded.
Kanu also clarified that privately owned motorcycles would continue to operate freely, provided they are properly registered and documented within the state. However, private motorcycles are prohibited from carrying passengers.
The government further directed all commercial motorcycle operators to wear officially approved Abia State identification vests while operating within designated areas.
In addition, all motorcycles, tricycles and commercial vehicles operating in the state must be duly registered and documented in line with government regulations.
To ensure accountability during enforcement, the state government said it had established a toll-free complaints channel through which residents can report cases of extortion, misconduct or abuse by task force personnel.
The government appealed to residents, transport operators and community leaders to support the initiative, insisting that the policy was aimed at enhancing safety, maintaining order and protecting lives across the state.
“There is no cause for panic. This policy is about protecting lives, preserving peace, and building a safer Abia for everyone,” the statement added.